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Exhibitors Laud FNITCC Atlanta as Game-Changer for Non-Oil Exports Growth

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Exhibitors Laud FNITCC Atlanta as Game-Changer for Non-Oil Exports Growth

NAIJANEWSNGR – Exhibitors at the recently concluded Fidelity Nigeria International Trade & Creative Connect (FNITCC) in Atlanta, Georgia have lauded the event as a transformative platform for showcasing Nigerian non-oil exports and businesses on the global stage.

Hosted by Fidelity Bank Plc in collaboration with AFRICON from September 18 to 20, 2025, FNITCC brought together innovative, export-ready Nigerian enterprises across diverse sectors—including fashion, arts, manufacturing, and technology—creating a vibrant space for commerce, connection, and cultural celebration.

Praised for its energy and flawless execution, FNITCC Atlanta 2025 marked a significant leap forward from previous editions. With increased attendance, enhanced booth setups, and deeper engagement, participants described the experience as “a clear step up” and “more impactful than ever.”

“It was an honor to exhibit among such a vibrant community of creatives, entrepreneurs, and cultural ambassadors. We left FNITCC 2025 with new customers, meaningful connections, and a renewed sense of purpose. Well done to Fidelity Bank for championing Nigerian businesses and bridging global markets,” shared the By Nuga Designs team.

Exhibitors also highlighted the power of community and resilience, recounting moments of spontaneous international deals and heartfelt support.

“Last year, I was devastated when our goods didn’t arrive on time,” one exhibitor recalled. “But this year, even in my absence, my fellow AWE sisters stepped in. A surprise visit from a buyer led to an impromptu video-call deal that changed everything. FNITCC reminded me that connections often matter more than sales.”

Gratitude flowed freely for the Fidelity Bank team and the behind-the-scenes contributors who ensured the event’s success.

“On behalf of FSGF AFRICA LTD, I extend our deepest gratitude to Fidelity Bank for hosting such a wonderful event,” said another exhibitor. “To the Fidelity team—your warmth, professionalism, and commitment made this experience truly remarkable.”

FNITCC 2025 also celebrated Nigerian excellence and the rising influence of women-led businesses.

“Wow! Sisters online, making the impossible possible! This is the Africa we want. Nigerians are believing in Made-in-Nigeria products—and that belief is powerful,” shared one emotionally moved participant.

“Fidelity is carving out a big slice in Nigeria’s story of entrepreneurs and entrepreneurship—and doing it with focus,” added another.

Reflecting on the vision behind FNITCC, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, Managing Director and CEO of Fidelity Bank Plc, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to expanding Nigeria-U.S. trade beyond oil. She noted that while Nigeria’s non-oil exports currently stand at under $5 billion annually, the potential is immense. “At Fidelity Bank, we believe access to global markets is a pathway to shared prosperity. That belief inspired the creation of FNITCC,” she said.

FNITCC 2025 demonstrated that when Nigerian innovation meets global opportunity, extraordinary outcomes follow. As Fidelity Bank continues to invest in platforms that amplify local talent and drive cross-border growth, the future of Nigerian enterprise shines brighter than ever.

Ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 9.1 million customers through digital banking channels, its 255 business offices in Nigeria and United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.

The Bank is the recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award by BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; the 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application award for its Fidelity Mobile App by Global Business Outlook, and the 2024 Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider award by Global Brands Magazine. Additionally, the Bank was recognized as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence and as the Export Financing Bank of the Year by the BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.

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Sulaiman Aledeh Steps Down as Managing Director of Edo Broadcasting Service, Effective 30 May 2026

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Sulaiman Aledeh

Sulaiman Aledeh has formally tendered his resignation as Managing Director of the Edo Broadcasting Service (EBS), effective 30 May 2026.

The decision, he said, was taken to enable him devote full attention to the next phase of his professional journey as a media practitioner and to pursue other endeavours as a private citizen.

In his letter to the Governor of Edo State, Aledeh expressed profound gratitude for the confidence reposed in him and for the privilege of serving the people of Edo State. “It has been a singular honour to lead this historic institution and contribute, however modestly, to its repositioning within an increasingly dynamic and competitive media environment,” he stated.

He also extended appreciation to the people of Edo State at home and in the diaspora for their support, engagement, and encouragement throughout his tenure. He described the opportunity to serve the public through broadcasting and strengthen the connection between government and the citizenry as deeply fulfilling.

Aledeh commended the dedication, resilience, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to excellence of his colleagues and the entire EBS workforce. He noted that their efforts made collective achievements possible as they pursued a shared vision of transforming EBS into a modern, credible, and forward-looking public broadcasting institution.

As he departs, Aledeh expressed confidence that the organisation will continue to grow from strength to strength and fulfil its vital mandate in service to the people of Edo State.

He concluded by wishing His Excellency, the administration, the people of Edo State, and the entire EBS family continued success in all future endeavours.

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Abdulhakeem Odegade Celebrates as Eid el Kabir 2026 Meets Nigeria’s Children’s Day

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Akmodel Group MD Builder Dr Abdulhakeem Odegade goodwill message Eid el Kabir Children's Day 2026 Nigeria

Akmodel Group MD Abdulhakeem Odegade marks a rare double celebration as Eid el Kabir 2026 coincides with Nigeria’s Children’s Day — sending a message of faith, sacrifice, unity, and hope for children.

Something rare is happening on May 27, 2026.

For the first time in several years, Nigeria’s Children’s Day and Eid el Kabir fall on the same date. Two celebrations. One day. One message: the future belongs to the children, and it is the responsibility of every adult — every family, every community, every business leader — to protect and invest in that future.

Builder (Dr.) Abdulhakeem Odegade, Managing Director and CEO of Akmodel Group, has seized this moment to send a warm goodwill message to Nigerians — and to children in particular — on behalf of the management and staff of the Akmodel Group.


Key Takeaways

  • Akmodel Group MD Abdulhakeem Odegade has released a goodwill message marking the rare coincidence of Eid el Kabir and Children’s Day 2026
  • He described the double celebration as a moment reflecting love, sacrifice, unity, hope, and the importance of nurturing children
  • He urged Nigerians to promote peace, kindness, and generosity especially toward the less privileged during the festive season
  • He spoke directly to children — encouraging them to remain focused, believe in themselves, and pursue their dreams
  • He expressed gratitude to clients, partners, and associates for their continued trust in Akmodel Group

A Double Celebration: Why May 27, 2026 Is Different

Nigeria marks Children’s Day every year on May 27. It is a day set aside to celebrate, protect, and invest in the future of children across the country.

Definition — Children’s Day Nigeria: Children’s Day is observed on May 27 in Nigeria. It is a public holiday for primary and secondary school children, celebrated with parades, school events, community programs, and corporate outreach initiatives across the country.

Eid el Kabir — also known as Eid al-Adha — is one of the two most important celebrations in the Islamic calendar. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God, and marks the end of the Hajj pilgrimage season.

Definition — Eid el Kabir (Eid al-Adha): Eid el Kabir is an Islamic festival observed globally to honour the story of Prophet Ibrahim’s obedience and sacrifice. It is a time of prayer, the symbolic sacrifice of livestock, acts of generosity, and the sharing of food with family, neighbours, and those in need. In Nigeria, it is one of the most widely celebrated public holidays.

In 2026, both celebrations fall on Wednesday, May 27 — a coincidence that Builder Dr. Abdulhakeem Odegade described as a special moment carrying a unified message of love, sacrifice, and hope.


What Abdulhakeem Odegade Said

In a goodwill message released on behalf of the management and staff of Akmodel Group, Dr. Odegade reflected on the deeper meaning of both celebrations coming together.

He described Eid el Kabir as a sacred season that teaches the values of faith, obedience, compassion, and selflessness — values that he said every individual and community needs more of in the current moment.

He described Children’s Day as a reminder of the urgent need to protect, support, and invest in children — the foundation upon which every better society is built.

Speaking on the importance of children, Dr. Odegade stressed that their dreams, creativity, talents, and potential must be continuously encouraged through:

  • Quality education
  • Moral upbringing
  • A safe and supportive environment

He urged all Nigerians to use the festive season to promote peace, kindness, unity, and generosity — particularly toward the less privileged — while strengthening family and community bonds across the country.


A Direct Message to Children

In a moment that sets this goodwill message apart, Builder Dr. Abdulhakeem Odegade spoke directly to the children of Nigeria.

He encouraged them to:

  • Remain focused and disciplined
  • Believe in themselves and their abilities
  • Never stop pursuing their dreams
  • Remember that they are gifted, unique, and capable of achieving greatness

The message echoes Akmodel Group’s consistent positioning as a business with deep roots in community development and youth investment — not only through its real estate work but through its public engagement and corporate voice.


About Builder (Dr.) Abdulhakeem Odegade

Definition — Builder (Dr.) Abdulhakeem Odegade: Dr. Abdulhakeem Odegade is the Managing Director and CEO of Akmodel Group, one of Nigeria’s growing diversified business organisations with a strong base in real estate development. A qualified builder by professional training — hence the professional title “Builder” — he studied Building Technology at the Federal Polytechnic, Ede, Osun State. He has received multiple awards for his contributions to real estate development in Nigeria including the Man of the Year Real Estate Entrepreneur Award and recognition from Noble Landmark Africa Media for outstanding contributions to Real Estate Management and Development in Africa.


About Akmodel Group

Definition — Akmodel Group: Akmodel Group is a Nigerian diversified business organisation with a strong presence across major cities including Lagos, Awka, Uyo, Ibadan, Abeokuta, Ilorin, and Enugu. The group has international operations in Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and the United Kingdom. Its subsidiaries include Akmodel Homes and Properties, Akmodel Builders Construction, Akmodel Farm Investment, Akmodel Auto-Care, and Akmodel Oil and Gas. The group was founded and is led by Builder (Dr.) Abdulhakeem Odegade.

Dr. Odegade used the goodwill message to also express appreciation to clients, business partners, associates, and members of the public for their continued trust and support toward the growth of Akmodel Group over the years.

He concluded by wishing Muslim faithful a peaceful and blessed Eid el Kabir celebration while celebrating children across Nigeria and beyond on the occasion of Children’s Day 2026.


Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Abdulhakeem Odegade and what is Akmodel Group?

Builder (Dr.) Abdulhakeem Odegade is the Managing Director and CEO of Akmodel Group — a Nigerian diversified business organisation with operations in real estate, construction, farming, auto-care, and oil and gas. The group operates across seven major Nigerian cities and has international presence in Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and the United Kingdom.

Why does Eid el Kabir coincide with Children’s Day in 2026?

In 2026 the Islamic lunar calendar places Eid el Kabir on May 27 — the same date Nigeria observes Children’s Day every year. This rare coincidence of two major celebrations on the same day is the context for Dr. Odegade’s goodwill message.

What is Eid el Kabir?

Eid el Kabir — also known as Eid al-Adha — is one of the two most important Islamic festivals. It commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s act of faith and obedience and is marked by prayer, sacrifice, generosity, and community celebration. In Nigeria it is a public holiday observed by millions of Muslims across the country.

What message did Abdulhakeem Odegade send to children?

Dr. Odegade encouraged Nigerian children to remain focused, believe in themselves, and never stop pursuing their dreams. He reminded them that they are gifted, unique, and capable of achieving greatness — and that investing in children is the foundation of building a better society.

Where does Akmodel Group operate?

Akmodel Group operates across Lagos, Awka, Uyo, Ibadan, Abeokuta, Ilorin, and Enugu in Nigeria, with international operations in Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and the United Kingdom.

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Favour Benson Urges Compassion for Children as Eid el Kabir Meets Children’s Day 2026

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Favour Benson Executive Director JTAH Foundation goodwill message Eid el Kabir Children's Day Nigeria 2026

JTAH Foundation’s Favour Benson calls for urgent investment in child welfare and community kindness as Nigeria marks the rare convergence of Eid el Kabir and Children’s Day on May 27, 2026.

Not every year gives us this kind of moment.

On May 27, 2026, Nigeria wakes up to two celebrations at once — Eid el Kabir and Children’s Day landing on the same date. For millions of Nigerian families, this means a day of prayer, sacrifice, reflection, and celebration all woven together into one.

For Mrs. Favour Benson, Executive Director of the Jashabel Touch-A-Heart Foundation (JTAH Foundation), this convergence is more than a calendar coincidence. It is a call to action.

In a special message marking the dual celebration, Favour Benson has urged Nigerians — individuals, families, religious institutions, corporations, and government — to look beyond the festivities and make a deliberate, lasting investment in the lives of Nigeria’s most vulnerable children.


Key Takeaways

  • Favour Benson of JTAH Foundation has released a goodwill message marking the convergence of Eid el Kabir and Children’s Day 2026
  • She described the moment as an opportunity to reconnect with humanity and extend love to vulnerable children and struggling families
  • She expressed concern about children growing up without adequate care, emotional support, education, or hope
  • She called on individuals, religious bodies, corporations, and government to invest in child welfare, education, mental development, and emotional wellbeing
  • She spoke directly to children — urging them to remain courageous, focused, and hopeful despite hardship
  • JTAH Foundation is a humanitarian NGO focused on child welfare, women’s rights, and community advocacy founded in 2000

Why This Double Celebration Carries Extra Weight

Eid el Kabir — also called Eid al-Adha — is one of the most sacred occasions in the Islamic calendar. It commemorates the faith and obedience of Prophet Ibrahim and is observed through prayer, the symbolic sacrifice of livestock, and generous sharing with family, neighbours, and the less privileged.

Definition — Eid el Kabir (Eid al-Adha): Eid el Kabir is an Islamic festival observed globally to honour the story of Prophet Ibrahim’s submission to God. It falls at the end of the Hajj pilgrimage season and is marked by communal prayer, animal sacrifice, and acts of generosity — especially toward the poor and vulnerable.

Children’s Day in Nigeria is observed every May 27. It is a public holiday for primary and secondary school children, celebrated with parades, school events, and community programs across the country.

Definition — Children’s Day Nigeria: Children’s Day is observed on May 27 in Nigeria. It is dedicated to celebrating, protecting, and investing in the lives and futures of children. The Nigerian government, civil society organisations, and corporate bodies typically use the day for outreach programs, advocacy, and community engagement focused on child welfare.

In 2026, both fall on the same day — a convergence that Favour Benson described as a moment that presents Nigeria with a clear and urgent message about its responsibility to its children.


What Favour Benson Said

In her special message, Favour Benson drew a direct line between the values at the heart of both celebrations.

She noted that Eid el Kabir teaches sacrifice, obedience, and devotion — while Children’s Day reminds society of its duty to protect the dreams and future of every child, regardless of background or circumstance.

But she did not stop at celebration. She raised a concern that sits at the heart of JTAH Foundation’s work.

She expressed deep worry about the increasing social and economic pressures affecting Nigerian homes — noting that countless children are growing up without:

  • Adequate care and emotional support
  • Access to quality education
  • Hope for a brighter future

This is not an abstract concern. It is the lived reality for millions of children across Nigeria’s urban slums, rural communities, and underserved neighbourhoods — children whose potential goes unseen and uncelebrated not just on Children’s Day, but every day of the year.


Her Call to Action

Favour Benson directed her message at every level of Nigerian society.

She urged individuals to revive the culture of kindness and community support — reminding Nigerians that simple acts of generosity can transform lives during difficult times.

She called on religious bodies, corporate organizations, and government institutions to look beyond celebrations and deliberately invest in the:

  • Welfare of children
  • Education and learning access
  • Mental development and psychological wellbeing
  • Emotional health of young people especially in underserved communities

Definition — Child Mental Development: Child mental development refers to the cognitive, emotional, social, and psychological growth that children undergo from birth through adolescence. It includes the development of thinking skills, emotional regulation, social relationships, and self-identity. Adequate support, safe environments, and nurturing relationships are critical to healthy mental development in children.

The inclusion of mental development and emotional wellbeing alongside education and welfare is significant. It reflects a growing awareness — one that JTAH Foundation has championed consistently — that child development is not only physical and academic. It is psychological. A child who feels unseen, unsafe, or emotionally neglected carries those wounds far into adulthood.

SEE ALSO: Viju Industries Children’s Day 2026: Celebrate Their Brilliance 5.0


A Direct Message to Children

In a moment that gives this goodwill message its most human dimension, Favour Benson spoke directly to the children of Nigeria.

She reminded them not to allow hardship or limitations define their future. She encouraged them to remain:

  • Courageous in the face of difficulty
  • Focused in the pursuit of their goals
  • Hopeful despite life’s challenges

Her message to them was clear:

“Every child carries greatness within them. The society we build tomorrow depends on the love, guidance, opportunities, and values we give our children today.”


A Prayer for Nigeria

Favour Benson concluded her message with a prayer for peace, healing, and stability across Nigeria — expressing hope that the spirit of Eid el Kabir and the joy of Children’s Day would inspire a renewed commitment to unity, empathy, and nation-building.

She wished Muslim faithful a peaceful and blessed Eid el Kabir celebration and extended warm Children’s Day greetings to children across the country and beyond.


About Favour Benson

Definition — Mrs. Favour Benson: Mrs. Favour Linda Uzoamaka Ogbodo-Benson is the founder and Executive Director of the Jashabel Touch-A-Heart Foundation (JTAH Foundation). She is a human rights activist, actor, film producer, publisher, and advocate focused on violence against women and children. She was honoured by Women Empowerment Legal Aid as an Ambassador for Peace and Advocacy on Violence Against Women and the Girl Child in 2016. She is from Enugu State and is based in Lagos.


About JTAH Foundation

Definition — Jashabel Touch-A-Heart Foundation (JTAH Foundation): JTAH Foundation is a Nigerian humanitarian and non-governmental organisation founded in 2000 by Mrs. Favour Benson. It is dedicated to supporting vulnerable individuals — particularly women and children — through advocacy, empowerment, outreach programs, and community engagement. The foundation works on issues including domestic violence, child abuse, child labour, women’s rights, and social welfare. Its Youth Rescue arm focuses on young people through educational and empowerment programs. JTAH Foundation is based in Lagos and operates across Nigeria.


Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Favour Benson and what is JTAH Foundation?

Mrs. Favour Benson is the founder and Executive Director of the Jashabel Touch-A-Heart Foundation — a Nigerian humanitarian NGO established in 2000. The foundation advocates for women, children, and vulnerable communities through outreach, education, and empowerment programs across Nigeria.

Why is Eid el Kabir and Children’s Day falling on the same day in 2026 significant?

In 2026, both Eid el Kabir and Nigeria’s Children’s Day fall on May 27 — a rare convergence of two major national and religious celebrations. Favour Benson and other Nigerian leaders have used this moment to call for renewed commitment to child welfare, community generosity, and national unity.

What specific concerns did Favour Benson raise about Nigerian children?

Favour Benson expressed concern that many Nigerian children are growing up without adequate care, emotional support, access to education, or hope for the future. She called for deliberate investment in child welfare, mental development, and emotional wellbeing — particularly for children in underserved communities.

What is JTAH Foundation’s focus area?

JTAH Foundation focuses on human rights advocacy — particularly for women and children. Its work includes addressing domestic violence, child abuse, child labour, emotional wellbeing, and social welfare. It runs outreach programs, awareness campaigns, and empowerment initiatives across Nigeria.

What upcoming program does JTAH Foundation have in 2026?

JTAH Foundation is preparing its National Stakeholders Conference 4.0 in June 2026 in Onikan, Lagos. The theme is “Men, Why the Silence? Masculinity, Vulnerability, and Relationship Breakdown” — addressing the impact of masculinity and emotional expression on relationships, family structures, and society.


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